I hate to be writing this because in essence I am doing what I hate the most...complaining. I have spent some time over the past few years perusing the internet and it's social networks and unfortunately I find it has become a place for amplifying complaints. Flick open Twitter, Facebook and most other social networks and you do not have to scroll very far before you are reading about someone's displeasure. Complaints about products and services is where my frustration truly lies.
So I feel compelled to give you a little check list to follow before the world needs to be graced with your grievances.
1. Have you experienced a bad product or service? Well at least give the provider the chance to resolve it! Before you shout your displeasure to the online world try contacting them, you would be amazed at what can happen when you communicate.
2. Exhaust all of the company's customer service avenues. Not all companies can have customer service oriented to be a convenience to everybody - that is impossible. As painful as it might be you can't always have it your way!
3. Look for others online in the same situation. Most times you can find a discussion group about your troublesome situation that can quickly get you pointed in the right direction.
4. If none of the above has worked then by all means complain away just don't do it randomly. Direct your issue at least in the appropriate direction. Most companies have an online presence of some sort, direct your message that way. Just because your status is screaming your problems doesn't mean someone should hear.
5. If you have followed these steps and you have received good service and response share that with the world! Everyone loves a pat on the back for a job well done...don't be shy.
Unfortunately misery loves company and people feel a therapeutic benefit to outlaying their problems. I guess this is why social networks have become a hot spot for amplifying a compliant. Amplifying your voice is a benefit of social networks let's just be sure we do it right!
Have you been guilty of randomly complaining? Have any service related stories you would like to share?
